---
arc: 2
levels: 9-12
---

# Arc 2 — The Gilded War

## Summary

[[Valdris]] and [[Kethra]] are driven toward war while the party disrupts cult operations at [[Ironheart Mine]], [[Sunken Spire]], and [[Thronewood]]. The arc ends with political fallout and the rescue of [[Khalyraxis, the Verdant Wing]].

## Important Locations

| Location | Notable Places |
|----------|----------------|
| [[Ironheart Mine]] | Gatehouse, barracks, Great Lift, Deep Gallery, Dragonfang Vault |
| [[Freehold]] | Concord Hall, Crossroads Market, Whisper Gallery, Broken Seal Inn |
| [[Sunken Spire]] | Lighthouse, flooded sanctuary, deep chamber, ritual altar |
| [[Thronewood]] | Verdant Grove, Old Thronewood Road, Whispering Glade |

## Random Encounter Table (d8)

| d8 | Encounter |
|----|-----------|
| 1 | Iron Concord patrol demanding papers |
| 2 | Cult scouts tracking the party |
| 3 | A road ambush with mercenaries |
| 4 | Sahuagin raiders near the coast |
| 5 | A diplomatic envoy needing escort |
| 6 | Forest guardians testing intruders |
| 7 | A dragon sign or omen tied to the seals |
| 8 | A localized elemental hazard from a cracked anchor |

## Loot Table (d8)

| d8 | Loot |
|----|------|
| 1 | 75 gp and battlefield salvage |
| 2 | Potion of greater healing |
| 3 | Scroll of *water breathing* |
| 4 | [[Tideheart Pearl]] |
| 5 | [[Cloak of the Mountebank]] |
| 6 | Rare weapon or armor piece |
| 7 | Map or orders revealing cult movements |
| 8 | [[Verdant Wing Token]] |